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Best lake hikes in DuPage County
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Best lake hikes in DuPage County

Want a hike where the views are as smooth as the water's surface? These lake-side paths will have you reflecting on nature's beauty.

Here are some great hikes to explore in DuPage County.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Great Western Trail

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.6 (42) · 19.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 54 min

2

Easy

McKee Marsh, Mount Hoy - West Branch DuPage River Trail

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.4 (39) · 12.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 36 min

3

Easy

Herrick Lake, Meadowlark, Green Heron Loop Trail

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.6 (40) · 13.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 45 min

4

Easy

Lacey Creek and Lyman Woods Forest Preserve Loop

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.4 (29) · 2.7 km · Est. 34 min

5

Easy

Heritage Trail and Main Trail Loop - 1 from Meadow Lake

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.5 (46) · 10.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 13 min

6

Easy

Lambert Lake Nature Preserve Loop

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.7 (26) · 1.6 km · Est. 21 min

7

Medium

Mount Hoy Trail

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.6 (26) · 1.4 km · Est. 22 min

8

Easy

Round Meadow Lake and Eagle Lake Loop

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.5 (40) · 3.8 km · Est. 46 min

9

Easy

Lake Manor Park Loop

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.6 (20) · 1.1 km · Est. 13 min

10

Easy

St James Farm Loop Trail

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.6 (35) · 6.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 20 min

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Reviews for lake hikes in DuPage County

Minh Torp avatar

Great Western Trail

RockyCaveexplorer68 路 reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Clyde Schinner PhD avatar

McKee Marsh, Mount Hoy - West Branch DuPage River Trail

RavineSnowwalker20 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Fausto Stoltenberg avatar

Herrick Lake, Meadowlark, Green Heron Loop Trail

CliffPinestracker92 路 reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Aurelio Zemlak avatar

Lacey Creek and Lyman Woods Forest Preserve Loop

ScoutWoodsman18 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Ezequiel Crona avatar

Heritage Trail and Main Trail Loop - 1 from Meadow Lake

SeekerFootstep73 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in DuPage County

What is the climate like for hiking in Illinois?

Illinois offers a four-season climate ideal for hiking. Spring and fall are most pleasant, with moderate temperatures and less rainfall. Summer hikes can be hot and humid, requiring hydration and sun protection. Winter hikes, while chilly, can offer pristine snowy landscapes. More info: www.enjoyillinois.com

Do I need a permit to hike in Illinois?

Hiking in Illinois usually doesn't require permits. For activities in state parks like camping or fishing, contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Always check regulations for specific trails or parks. More info: www2.illinois.gov/dnr

Is wild camping allowed in Illinois?

Wild camping in Illinois is generally restricted to designated campgrounds in state parks. Dispersed camping isn't typically allowed. For detailed rules and reservations, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website: www2.illinois.gov/dnr

Are there mountain rescue services in Illinois?

In case of emergencies while hiking in Illinois, dial 911 for immediate help. Specific mountain rescue services aren't prominent given Illinois' flat topography. Local law enforcement and park rangers handle such situations. Illinois Emergency Management Agency website can be checked for more information: www2.illinois.gov/iema

Are there dangerous plants in Illinois?

While hiking in Illinois, expect to encounter diverse flora such as hardwood trees in the North, cypress and tupelo in the floodplains, and tallgrass prairies in central parts. These add beauty and challenge, enhancing the hiking experience. For more details, check Illinois Department of Natural Resources: dnr.illinois.gov.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Illinois?

In Illinois, hikers may encounter white-tailed deer, squirrels, and raccoons, among other wildlife. Be mindful of ticks and mosquitoes, especially in wooded areas. Always remember, it's best to observe wildlife from a distance. For further information, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources: dnr.illinois.gov.

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